NEW JERSEY LCV ENDORSES CANDIDATES IN LOCAL ELECTIONS
NEW JERSEY LCV ENDORSES CANDIDATES IN LOCAL ELECTIONS
Endorsements provide clear choice on environmental protection at local and county levels
TRENTON, NJ- New Jersey League of Conservation Voters (New Jersey LCV), the political voice for the environment in New Jersey, announced a slate of more than 50 endorsements for local and county candidates in November’s general election.
These endorsements represent the first time New Jersey LCV has endorsed a full ticket of candidates, from governor to local governing bodies.
“From Jersey City to Moorestown, Phillipsburg to Red Bank candidates at the local and county level are stepping up and providing a clear choice to voters who care about tackling climate change, protecting drinking water, reducing emissions and preserving open space,” said Henry Gajda, Public Policy Director of New Jersey LCV. “While much of the attention is rightly focused on the top of the ticket, we know that all politics is local and that the choices county commissioners and township councilmembers make shape local communities in profound ways. We’re proud to endorse such a strong slate of pro-conservation candidates.”
Last year, New Jersey LCV, for the first time, endorsed 28 local candidates. This year New Jersey LCV nearly doubled their local endorsements – announcing 55 candidates – Democrats, Republicans and Green Party candidates – that they will support to in their race and is expected to pour considerable resources into getting candidates at all level of government elected in November. “This year’s high-powered local endorsements clearly show an overwhelming groundswell of support for bold climate and justice action,” said Gajda.
New Jersey LCV embarked on a thorough endorsement process across the state’s big cities and small towns.
In New Jersey’s second largest city, New Jersey LCV was proud to endorse Mayor Steven Fulop for reelection, along with City Council candidates Mira Prinz-Arey, Jake Hudnut and Jermaine Robinson.
“New Jersey LCV has been a tireless advocate for a sustainable NJ. As the mayor of the single most diverse city in the country as well as one of the most densely populated cities in the country, I know firsthand the challenges of today and can easily see the challenges of tomorrow if not confronted head-on, and that’s why I am honored to receive the endorsement of New Jersey LCV today,” said Steven Fulop, candidate for Jersey City Mayor. “This is not only a validation of the work we have done in Jersey City but more importantly, it is a commitment to the work we are planning to do together in order to keep Jersey City a leader on environmentally conscience policies.”
At the same time, New Jersey LCV endorsed Parsippany Mayor Michael Soriano, whose careful stewardship of environmental resources of the largest municipality in the New Jersey Highlands region earned the group’s support. New Jersey LCV also endorsed Cori Herbig and Judy Hernandez for township council.
“New Jersey LCV’s leadership, action on environmental and conservation policy, and support of leaders that prioritize these initiatives has been the linchpin for NJ’s progressive green leadership. Local policymakers are needed to make the big, bold legislative changes these times require. New Jersey LCV support makes this possible. We are honored to have the endorsement of New Jersey LCV,” said Michael Soriano, Cori Herbig, and Judy Hernandez, candidates running in Parsippany-Troy Hills.
And continuing a long tradition of supporting pro-environment candidates on both sides of the aisle, New Jersey LCV endorsed Warren County Commissioner James R. Kern III, who has pushed for the formation of a county environmental commission.
“I am greatly honored to receive the endorsement of the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters. Warren County’s scenic rivers, mountains, valleys, and rolling hills are part of what makes this corner of the state so great,” said Kern. “As an elected leader, I am committed to protecting these treasures so that future generations can enjoy this rural beauty for years to come.”
“Local elected leaders play a critical role in protecting our families and our environment by pursuing policies that can reduce flooding and improve water quality, increase green energy usage and ensure more sustainable construction practices,” said New Jersey LCV Chairwoman Julia Somers. “In the coming months, we will work hard to get these environmental champions elected to help position towns and counties across New Jersey as environmental leaders.”
New Jersey LCV also awarded their final legislative endorsement to Speaker Craig Coughlin for Assembly. “The 218th and the 219th legislatures, led by Speaker Coughlin, have been the most environmentally productive legislatures in New Jersey history. Even during COVID under the leadership of Speaker Coughlin, New Jersey remained a stalwart advocate for bold climate action and justice – and we couldn’t be prouder to endorse him for his Assembly race,” said Gajda.
Following is a list of all local candidates endorsed by New Jersey LCV, organized alphabetically by county and town:
| Municipality or County | Candidate Name (Party) | Candidate Statement |
| Alexandria Township Committee | Max Cooper (D) | |
| Atlantic Highlands Borough Council | Brian Dougherty (D) | “I am honored and humbled to accept the endorsement of the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters. As the father of three young children, I believe there is no issue before us more urgent than climate change. It is up to all of us – and especially our elected officials – to do all we can and move as quickly as we can to build a greener and more resilient future,” said Brian Dougherty, candidate for Atlantic Highlands Borough Council. |
| Atlantic Highlands Borough Council | Lesley D’Almeida (D) | “It is with much gratitude that I accept the endorsement from the New Jersey LCV. Climate change is the most significant threat we are facing as a community. We must act boldly and decisively to protect our environment (water, air and open space). I am honored to have the support of an organization that is committed to protecting the environment for us all,” said Lesley D’Almeida, candidate for Atlantic Highlands Borough Council. |
| Bridgewater Township Council | Jennifer Feigley (D) | “I am thrilled to receive an endorsement from the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters. I know that a bright future for Bridgewater stems from a healthier planet. I am proud to commit to supporting environmental issues in a way that provides equity for all residents and a cleaner, smarter New Jersey,” said Jennifer Feigley, candidate for Bridgewater Township Council. |
| Bridgewater Township Council | Jill Gladstone (D) | “It is truly an honor to be the recipient of an endorsement from the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters! The impact of local decision-making on the environment, such as approvals for new development and the choice of energy sources, is becoming more and more clear. At the same time, our national failure to address climate change has caused tragic consequences in the form of weather extremes resulting in loss of life and devastating damage to residents’ homes and property – even right here in Bridgewater. It is essential that we elect local officials who will tackle these issues,” said Jill Gladstone, candidate for Bridgewater Township Council. |
| Chatham Township Committee | Kathy Abbott (D) | “As a longtime environmentalist in my municipality, I am very pleased to be endorsed by the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters as I run for election to the Chatham Township Committee,” said Kathy Abbott, candidate for Chatham Township Committee. |
| Clinton Town Council | John Kashwick (D) | “Given my lifelong passion for the environment, it is a great honor to receive the endorsement from such an outstanding organization,” said John Kashwick, candidate for Clinton Town Council. |
| Delaware Township Committee | Doug Borden (D) | “We are so pleased to learn that the New Jersey LCV has endorsed our campaign for Delaware Township Committee in the upcoming election – we could not be more proud of this important distinction,” said Doug Borden and Peter McCrohan, candidates for Delaware Township Committee. |
| Delaware Township Committee | Peter McCrohan (D) | “We are so pleased to learn that the New Jersey LCV has endorsed our campaign for Delaware Township Committee in the upcoming election – we could not be more proud of this important distinction,” said Doug Borden and Peter McCrohan, candidates for Delaware Township Committee. |
| Denville Town Council, Ward 3 | Barbara Kane (D) | “I am pleased to be endorsed by such a committed and dedicated organization, and I will work hard as an elected official to support the goals of the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters,” said Barbara Kane, candidate for Denville Town Council, Ward 3. |
| Fair Lawn Borough Council | Gail Friedberg Rottenstrich (D) | “I am very proud to announce that I have been endorsed by the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters. Protecting the environment and environmental sustainability are fundamental to good governance and to moving Fair Lawn forward. We look forward to working together to ensure a cleaner, greener, and healthier future for all our residents,” said Gail Friedberg Rottenstrich, candidate for Fair Lawn Borough Council. |
| Franklin Township Council, Ward 1. | Ed Potosnak (D) | “I am honored to receive the endorsement of New Jersey LCV, the state’s most respected political environmental organization,” said Ed Potosnak, candidate for Franklin Township Council – Ward 1. “My commitment to protecting Franklin’s natural resources, preserving our open spaces, and safeguarding clean drinking water are critical to our community’s continued success.” |
| Green Brook Township Committee | Arthur Goodman (D) | “I am proud to be endorsed by the New Jersey LCV as I am committed to the forward-looking principles of preserving our environment for the long-term well-being of our community, our state, our country, and our planet,” said Arthur Goodman, candidate for Green Brook Township Committee. |
| Green Brook Township Committee | Jen Dawson (D) | “I am enthusiastic about the endorsement from New Jersey League of Conservation Voters and wish to further our desire for a smarter, cleaner, and better New Jersey community!” said Jen Dawson, candidate for Green Brook Township Committee. |
| Hainesport Twp Committee | Anna Evans (D) | “I am proud to have earned the endorsement of the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters, and believe it reflects my commitment to tackling the environmental and climate-change-based issues facing our community today,” said Anna Evans, candidate for Hainesport Township Committee. |
| Harding Township Committee | Kate Barry (D) | “I had the immense pleasure of interning with New Jersey LCV close to its founding, shortly after receiving my Masters degree in Environment and Sustainable Development from University College London. It was one of the best, most hands-on experiences of my career. I know what a wonderful organization New Jersey LCV is, and how hardworking, knowledgeable, and dedicated its employees, volunteers, and interns are. As a third-generation resident of Harding Township, I know an endorsement from New Jersey LCV will resonate with voters here on a profound level. We have a long tradition of environmental stewardship and care deeply about our environment and our stunning open spaces. I am truly honored to have earned this endorsement and look forward to working with our friends at New Jersey LCV when I am elected to the Harding Township Committee,” said Kate Barry, candidate for Harding Township Committee. |
| Hawthorne Town Council | Craig Cayetano (Green Party) | “I thank the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters for this honor. I am grateful to be the first Independent, Green Party Candidate to receive this endorsement. It shows that the time for more voices to be elected to local government is long overdue,” said Craig Cayetano, candidate for Hawthorne Town Council. “This is a partnership and a promise that with my election to Hawthorne Town Council, I will uphold the principles and reasons for running to bring Hawthorne forward! I will work toward the goals I campaigned on and will be a leader for the environment!” |
| High Bridge Boro Council | Christopher Graham (D) | “I am proud to obtain the endorsement of New Jersey’s League of Conservation Voters, which is an impressive group of environmental professionals looking out for the greater good of the state of New Jersey,” said Christopher Graham, candidate for High Bridge Boro Council. |
| Hillsborough Township Committee | Jeff Wright (D) | “On behalf of Roger and myself, we want to thank New Jersey LCV for their endorsement especially at a time when environmental factors like stormwater management and related overdevelopment are adding to the problems the recent storm demonstrated. We are both advocates of the DOT Complete Green Street policy that is especially relevant in light of the widespread stormwater damage. Better planning to avoid overdevelopment that strips the land of porous surfaces and instituting green infrastructure to prevent stormwater-related flooding are two things needed in our town. Everyone should welcome government plans to stop the existing flooding problems,” said Jeff Wright and Roger Koch, candidates for Hillsborough Township Committee. |
| Hillsborough Township Committee | Roger Koch (D) | “On behalf of Jeff and myself, we want to thank New Jersey LCV for their endorsement especially at a time when environmental factors like stormwater management and related overdevelopment are adding to the problems the recent storm demonstrated. We are both advocates of the DOT Complete Green Street policy that is especially relevant in light of the widespread stormwater damage. Better planning to avoid overdevelopment that strips the land of porous surfaces and instituting green infrastructure to prevent stormwater-related flooding are two things needed in our town. Everyone should welcome government plans to stop the existing flooding problems,” said Jeff Wright and Roger Koch, candidates for Hillsborough Township Committee. |
| Hillside Town Council | George Cook (D) | “It is my honor to be endorsed by the New Jersey LCV and to be a part of their efforts in fighting to end environmental racism, and to help NJ go green,” said George Cook, candidate for Hillside Town Council. |
| Jersey City Council, Ward B | Mira Prinz-Arey (D) | “I’m grateful to have the support of New Jersey LCV as well as their recognition of the progress we’re making in delivering environmental justice and open space to the West Side with exciting projects like Skyway Park, which will transform a former landfill into 12 acres of new open space,” said Councilwoman Mira Prinz-Arey, running for Jersey City Council, Ward B. “Jersey City residents deserve leaders who will work to improve their quality of life each and every day and I’m running for re-election to continue being an advocate for sustainability, open space and progress in Ward B.” |
| Jersey City Council, Ward E | Jake Hudnut (D) | “I am excited to announce that I have earned the endorsement of the League of Conservation Voters. Sustainability and equity are pillars of my campaign, and I am thrilled to be fighting alongside them for our shared values,” said Jake Hudnut, candidate for Jersey City Council, Ward E. |
| Jersey City Council, Ward F | Jermaine Robinson (D) | |
| Jersey City Mayor | Steven Fulop (D) | “New Jersey LCV has been a tireless advocate for a sustainable NJ. As the mayor of the single most diverse city in the country as well as one of the most densely populated cities in the country, I know firsthand the challenges of today and can easily see the challenges of tomorrow if not confronted head-on, and that’s why I am honored to receive the endorsement of New Jersey LCV today,” said Steven Fulop, candidate for Jersey City Mayor. “This is not only a validation of the work we have done in Jersey City but more importantly, it is a commitment to the work we are planning to do together in order to keep Jersey City a leader on environmentally conscience policies.” |
| Monmouth County Commissioner | Michael Beson (D) | “I am honored to have the endorsement of the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters and when elected will be a constant advocate for pro-environmental policies,” said Mike Beson, candidate for Monmouth County Commissioner. |
| Montgomery Township Committee | Marvin Schuldiner (D) | “It is an honor to be endorsed by the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters. This endorsement recognizes my commitment to be a good steward for the environment and to help preserve and improve the natural beauty of Montgomery,” said Marvin Schuldiner, candidate for Montgomery Township Committee. |
| Montgomery Township Committee | Neena Singh (D) | “As the first Sikh woman to serve on a municipal governing council in New Jersey, it is an honor to be endorsed by the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters. This endorsement recognizes my commitment to be a good steward for the environment and to help preserve and improve the natural beauty of Montgomery and our surrounding areas!” said Neena Singh, candidate for Montgomery Township Committee. |
| Moorestown Council | Quinton Law (D) | “Local governments play an important role in fighting the climate crisis. Our communities should be leading the way on green energy infrastructure and stormwater management. This is a climate emergency,” said Quinton Law, candidate for Moorestown Council. |
| Morris County Commissioner | T.C. McCourt (D) | “The three of us are simply over the moon to be in this fight alongside New Jersey LCV. Our planet is on the ballot this November. This election will set the tone for how our county handles the climate crisis. We look forward to working with the New Jersey LCV on moving Morris County and the rest of the state toward a more sustainable future,” said T.C. McCourt, AJ Oliver, and Dina Mikulka, candidates for Morris County Commissioner. |
| Morris County Commissioner | AJ Oliver (D) | “The three of us are simply over the moon to be in this fight alongside New Jersey LCV. Our planet is on the ballot this November. This election will set the tone for how our county handles the climate crisis. We look forward to working with the New Jersey LCV on moving Morris County and the rest of the state toward a more sustainable future,” said T.C. McCourt, AJ Oliver, and Dina Mikulka, candidates for Morris County Commissioner. |
| Morris County Commissioner | Dina Mikulka (D) | “The three of us are simply over the moon to be in this fight alongside New Jersey LCV. Our planet is on the ballot this November. This election will set the tone for how our county handles the climate crisis. We look forward to working with the New Jersey LCV on moving Morris County and the rest of the state toward a more sustainable future,” said T.C. McCourt, AJ Oliver, and Dina Mikulka, candidates for Morris County Commissioner. |
| Morris Township Committee | Mark Gyorfy (D) | “I am proud to have the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters’ support to continue pushing common-sense, environmentally conscious policies on a local level to better protect what we cherish today for generations to come,” said Mark Gyorfy, Deputy Mayor, candidate for Morris Township Committee. |
| Morris Township Committee | Tara Olivo-Moore (D) | “I am delighted to be endorsed by the League of Conservation Voters. I will work with them to preserve New Jersey‘s natural beauty and resources for the benefit of all New Jersey residents, now and into the future,” said Tara Olivo-Moore, candidate for Morris Township Committee. |
| Parsippany-Troy Hills Town Council | Michael Soriano (D) | “New Jersey LCV’s leadership, action on environmental and conservation policy, and support of leaders that prioritize these initiatives has been the linchpin for NJ’s progressive green leadership. Local policymakers are needed to make the big, bold legislative changes these times require. New Jersey LCV support makes this possible. We are honored to have the endorsement of New Jersey LCV,” said Michael Soriano, Cori Herbig, and Judy Hernandez, candidates running in Parsippany-Troy Hills. |
| Parsippany-Troy Hills Town Council | Cori Herbig (D) | “New Jersey LCV’s leadership, action on environmental and conservation policy, and support of leaders that prioritize these initiatives has been the linchpin for NJ’s progressive green leadership. Local policymakers are needed to make the big, bold legislative changes these times require. New Jersey LCV support makes this possible. We are honored to have the endorsement of New Jersey LCV,” said Michael Soriano, Cori Herbig, and Judy Hernandez, candidates running in Parsippany-Troy Hills. |
| Parsippany-Troy Hills Town Council | Judy Hernandez (D) | “New Jersey LCV’s leadership, action on environmental and conservation policy, and support of leaders that prioritize these initiatives has been the linchpin for NJ’s progressive green leadership. Local policymakers are needed to make the big, bold legislative changes these times require. New Jersey LCV support makes this possible. We are honored to have the endorsement of New Jersey LCV,” said Michael Soriano, Cori Herbig, and Judy Hernandez, candidates running in Parsippany-Troy Hills. |
| Pennington Borough Council | Nadine Stern (D) | “I have been long been an advocate for environmental equity and efforts to combat global warming. Personally, I have an all-electric vehicle and my house has recently installed solar panels,” said Nadine Stern, candidate for Pennington Borough Council. |
| Pennington Borough Council | James M. Davy (D) | “I welcome the endorsement of New Jersey LCV as I fully endorse its public policy agenda,” said James Davy, candidate for Pennington Borough Council. |
| Phillipsburg Town Council | Keith Kennedy (D) | “We are honored to have the support of the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters with their endorsement. With this endorsement, we will continue to build the future of Phillipsburg for all the people. Kennedy, Lewis, and Clark, when in office, vow to stand up against warehouse sprawl along our beautiful riverfront, that will not just bring noise but increased pollution to our beautiful town. We stand for preserving our town’s natural resources and protecting our parks and open spaces for the next generation,” said Lee Clark, Keith Kennedy, and Derick Lewis, candidates for Phillipsburg Town Council. |
| Phillipsburg Town Council | Derick Lewis (D) | “We are honored to have the support of the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters with their endorsement. With this endorsement, we will continue to build the future of Phillipsburg for all the people. Kennedy, Lewis, and Clark, when in office, vow to stand up against warehouse sprawl along our beautiful riverfront, that will not just bring noise but increased pollution to our beautiful town. We stand for preserving our town’s natural resources and protecting our parks and open spaces for the next generation,” said Lee Clark, Keith Kennedy, and Derick Lewis, candidates for Phillipsburg Town Council. |
| Phillipsburg Town Council | Lee Clark (D) | “We are honored to have the support of the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters with their endorsement. With this endorsement, we will continue to build the future of Phillipsburg for all the people. Kennedy, Lewis, and Clark, when in office, vow to stand up against warehouse sprawl along our beautiful riverfront, that will not just bring noise but increased pollution to our beautiful town. We stand for preserving our town’s natural resources and protecting our parks and open spaces for the next generation,” said Lee Clark, Keith Kennedy, and Derick Lewis, candidates for Phillipsburg Town Council. |
| Princeton Town Council | Leighton Newlin (D) | “I am pleased to receive the support of New Jersey LCV,” said Leighton Newlin, candidate for Princeton Town Council. |
| Raritan Township Committee | Hope Cohen (D) | “New Jersey LCV is a leading advocate for the future of this state and the health of the planet. I am deeply honored that New Jersey LCV recognizes my alignment with its policy priorities and endorses my candidacy for Raritan Township Committee,” said Hope Cohen, candidate for Raritan Township Committee. |
| Readington Township Committee | Adam Mueller (R) | “We are proud to receive the endorsement from the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters. The environment is an important part of what makes Readington Township a great place to live and Juergen and Adam will advocate for the long-term protection of Readington’s natural resources and a sustainable future,” said Adam Mueller and Juergen Huelsebusch, candidates for Readington Township Committee. |
| Readington Township Committee | Juergen Huelsebusch (R) | “We are proud to receive the endorsement from the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters. The environment is an important part of what makes Readington Township a great place to live and Juergen and Adam will advocate for the long-term protection of Readington’s natural resources and a sustainable future,” said Adam Mueller and Juergen Huelsebusch, candidates for Readington Township Committee. |
| Red Bank Town Council | Jacqueline Sturdivant (D) | “I am honored to receive the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters endorsement and cherish all of the New Jersey LCV activities to make New Jersey Green and sustainable. Our planet is in a climate crisis and it is imperative that we expand the measures of good stewardship my fellow Democrats have established in Red Bank thus far. I will support expanding electric vehicle charging stations, environmental concerns about plastics, and commitment to environmental reform,” said Jacqueline Sturdivant, candidate for Red Bank Town Council. |
| Red Bank Town Council | Kate Triggiano (D) | “I am honored to have earned the endorsement of New Jersey League of Conservation Voters. From clean energy to green infrastructure, to a more equitable future for all, New Jersey LCV shares many of the goals and solutions we are moving forward with here in Red Bank,” said Kate Triggiano, candidate for Red Bank Borough Council. |
| Roxbury Town Council, At-Large Seat | Jen Cooper (D) | “I am ecstatic to have the support of New Jersey LCV and am proud to promote the intentions and programs of our state that will proactively and intentionally build a greener, cleaner community that meets our energy needs affordably while equally meeting our needs to live in a healthy and environmentally just society,” said Jen Cooper, candidate for Roxbury Town Council, At-Large Seat. |
| Somerset County Commissioner | Sara Sooy (D) | “I am proud to be endorsed by New Jersey LCV as I will continue to support our shared missions. We still have lots of work to do with our expansion of EV, EV Charging stations, promoting green building development, and supporting planning in alignment with the state energy master plan,” said Sara Sooy, candidate for Somerset County Commissioner. |
| Somerset County Commissioner | Shanel Y. Robinson (D) | “Thank you to the New Jersey LCV for their vote of confidence by endorsing my candidacy for Somerset County Commissioner. I’m indeed honored and humbled to be seen as an ally, a leader, and an advocate for strong environmental policies, accountable to safeguard the health of our communities, the beauty of our state, and the strength of our economy,” said Shanel Robinson, candidate for Somerset County Commissioner. |
| Warren County Commissioner | James R. Kern III (R) | “I am greatly honored to receive the endorsement of the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters. Warren County’s scenic rivers, mountains, valleys, and rolling hills are part of what makes this corner of the state so great. As an elected leader, I am committed to protecting these treasures so that future generations can enjoy this rural beauty for years to come,” said James Kern III, candidate for Warren County Commission. |
| Watchung Borough Council | Daryl Eisenberg Knegten (D) | “Watchung prides itself on our natural beauty and bucolic surroundings. Maintaining our peaceful environment while planning for our future is a priority in my campaign and my governance,” said Councilmember Daryl Eisenberg Knegten, incumbent candidate for Watchung Borough Council. |
New Jersey League of Conservation Voters is a non-partisan organization whose mission is to elect environmental champions, hold public officials accountable, and support laws which protect our environment and improve the quality of people’s lives.
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